Selenium deficiency and miscarriage: A possible link?

Objective To investigate a possible relationship between a deficiency in serum selenium concentration and first trimester miscarriage. Design An observational study. Setting A teaching hospital in South Wales. Participants and methods Serum selenium, albumin and total protein were measured in 40 women admitted with first trimester nonrecurrent miscarriage. The results were compared with an equal number of age-matched nonpregnant healthy volunteers, and also from 40 pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic for booking in the first trimester. Results A reduction in serum selenium normally occurs in the first trimester of pregnancies that progress to term. However, a further statistically highly significant decrease in serum selenium was observed in those women who miscarried. Conclusion Further studies are required to assess the potential benefits of selenium supplements.